HARTFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--U.S. Paralympic snowboarders Evan Strong and Amy Purdy take flight in The Hartford’s new television commercials and shred stereotypes about people with physical disabilities. Strong is a test pilot and Purdy is a fighter in the high-flying ads that will air in the U.S. during the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games from March 7-16 on NBC and NBCSN.

“I’m proud to represent my country at the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games and show that I’m defined by my abilities and my accomplishments,” said Strong, 27, who lost part of his left leg as a result of being hit by a car while riding his motorcycle.

Sharing what defines them in the TV spots, Strong and Purdy invite fans to do the same at whatdefinesyou.com. The Hartford will make a $1 donation to U.S. Paralympics for every Twitter and Facebook posting or email share from the campaign site.*

Building on its two-decade commitment to U.S. Paralympic athletes, The Hartford helped sponsor the 52 hours of TV coverage of the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games on NBC and NBCSN. Live coverage begins on NBCSN with the Opening Ceremony at 11 a.m. EST on Friday, March 7.

“As a founding partner of U.S. Paralympics, we hope this unprecedented TV coverage of the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games will lead to greater awareness about these world-class athletes,” said Mike Concannon, executive vice president of The Hartford’s Group Benefits business. “We encourage our friends, family and business partners to cheer on Amy, Evan and Team USA in Sochi and join us in supporting U.S. Paralympic athletes all year long.”

The Hartford began backing U.S. Paralympic athletes and events 20 years ago. In 2003, The Hartford became the Official Disability Insurance Sponsor of U.S. Paralympics, a division of the U.S. Olympic Committee dedicated to recruiting and training elite athletes with physical disabilities. In 2012, the partnership was extended for another four years.

“I credit The Hartford’s long history of supporting the Paralympic Movement for making it possible for me to be on the U.S. Paralympic Team going to Sochi,” said Purdy, 34, a double-amputee after battling bacterial meningitis.

You can find the new TV ads with Strong and Purdy on The Hartford’s YouTube channel.

About The Hartford

With more than 200 years of expertise, The Hartford (NYSE:HIG) is a leader in property and casualty insurance, group benefits and mutual funds. The company is widely recognized for its service excellence, sustainability practices, trust and integrity. More information on the company and its financial performance is available at www.thehartford.com. Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheHartford. Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TheHartford.

The Hartford^® is The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries, including issuing companies, Hartford Life Insurance Company and Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company. Its headquarters is in Hartford, Conn.

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*The Hartford will donate up to $100,000 to U.S. Paralympics as part of this campaign.